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Our Team

Experienced criminal defence solicitors, higher court advocates and case managers dedicated to meticulous case preparation and strategic representation.

Legal Professionals & Practice Consultants

Our team brings together solicitors, solicitor advocates and accredited litigators handling serious crime, white-collar fraud and appellate proceedings across England and Wales.

01

Ishtiaq Sarwar

Solicitor, Managing Director
In October 2021, Ishtiaq became the managing director of Black and Co solicitors, having qualified with another firm.

He helped to vastly expand the firm over the next couple of years. Ishtiaq’s calm and reassuring manner have led to him building up a considerable client following over the years. He is dedicated, transparent and always available for his clients no matter the time of day. He is skilled and experienced in all matters of criminal defence and the firm’s reputation continues to grow under his leadership.

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02

Chris Black

Consultant
Chris qualified as a solicitor in 1984, giving him over 40 years’ experience in criminal defence.

He also founded the firm and now works as a consultant. Given his experience, he is a hugely valuable member of the team and often a useful source of information for junior staff members. Over the years, he has built up a large client following and he continues to attend Court and police stations as a consultant.

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03

Amena Aijaz

Solicitor
Amena joined the firm in 2024 and is a duty solicitor. She regularly attends Court and police stations.

She is known for her meticulous preparation and strong communication skills. Amena has many years of experience in representing clients where she can showcase her strong organisation, discretion and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.

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04

Debbie Martin

Fellow of CILEx & Accredited Police Station Rep
Debbie joined Black and Co in Feb 2005. She is a fellow of the chartered institute of legal executives and a fully accredited police station representative.

Debbie has vast experience of assisting clients in the Crown Court and has built up a strong client following over the years. She is also well known to Counsel and Judges. Debbie has a strong work ethos and is dedicated to her clients often going above and beyond to achieve favourable outcomes.

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05

Donna Plumb

Experienced Paralegal
Donna has 30 years of experience in criminal law and specialises in serious offences, particularly violent crime and sexual assault cases.

Donna is a highly experienced paralegal with 30 years of experience in criminal law. She specialises in serious offences involving violence and sexual assault. Known for her calm and composed nature, Donna engages confidently and professionally with clients, defendants and judges at all levels. Her extensive experience and steady approach make her a valued member of the team.

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06

Amjad Ibrahim

Consultant
With 20 years of experience representing clients at court and police stations, Amjad is a valuable member of the team.

He acts as a consultant and has a strong client following. He is highly skilled in trial preparation, contested hearings and has a reputation for persuasive advocacy.

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07

Nabeel Gatrad

Consultant, Solicitor Advocate (All Higher Courts)
As a dedicated Solicitor with over 15 years of experience in criminal defence, Nabeel has developed a strong reputation as a skilled advocate.

He provides expert legal representation to clients facing a wide range of charges. His deep understanding of criminal law, combined with meticulous attention to detail, has allowed him to successfully navigate complex legal matters and achieve favourable outcomes for clients. Nabeel brings a client-centred approach to each case while maintaining a strong focus on upholding justice. Nabeel was sought out by a former Member of Parliament who was accused of historic child abuse and multiple murders. The case attracted huge media attention and eventually led to the collapse of Operation Midland.

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08

Abrar Saiyed

Consultant
Abrar is highly organised with a strong understanding of criminal procedure.

He delivers excellent results at court and at the police station through his legal research, disclosure reviews and advocacy. Known for thorough preparation and strong client care.

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09

Maria Khan

Paralegal
Over eight years of criminal defence experience, including serious organised crime and EncroChat cases.

Maria Khan is an experienced paralegal with over eight years of experience in criminal defence. She is currently completing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) as she works towards qualifying as a solicitor. Maria has worked on a wide range of criminal cases, including serious and organised crime, conspiracy, drug-related offences, and complex EncroChat cases. She is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to build strong relationships with clients, ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout their cases.

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10

Ahmed Farook

Paralegal
Experienced in criminal cases from the police station stage through to the Crown Court.

Ahmed has recently joined Black & Co Solicitors, bringing extensive experience as a paralegal in criminal defence. He is experienced in handling cases from the initial police station stage through to proceedings before the Crown Court. Ahmed has dealt with a broad range of criminal matters, including drug offences, robbery, and money laundering. His experience across different stages of criminal proceedings enables him to support clients throughout the legal process with a thorough and practical approach.

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11

Faith Walker

Paralegal
Experienced in driving-related matters, with a strong focus on attention to detail and client care.

Faith is a paralegal with significant experience in driving-related matters. She takes a detail-oriented approach to her work and is committed to providing a high standard of client care. Faith understands the importance of keeping clients informed and supported throughout their cases. Her focus on accuracy, attention to detail, and clear communication helps ensure that each client's matter receives the care and consideration it deserves.

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12

Mira Sarasia

Office Manager & Head of Police Station Department
Proactive department leadership, excellent client care and knowledge of PACE codes.

Mira is the Office Manager and Head of the Police Station Department at Black & Co Solicitors. She plays a key role in overseeing the department and ensuring that clients receive attentive and professional support. With a proactive approach and excellent attention to detail, Mira is well-versed in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) and its associated codes of practice. She is committed to maintaining high standards of client care and ensuring that matters are handled efficiently and thoroughly.

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Get Expert Legal Counsel

Contact Black & Co Solicitors for confidential advice on serious criminal allegations, complex investigations and specialist defence matters. Our team is ready to assist whenever you need us.

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